Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly emerging as a frontrunner to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United once Premier League action resumes after the November international break. Carrick is said to be on the chopping block after guiding United to just one win in their opening 10 Premier League matches, a run that has dropped the club into the relegation zone for the first time in 40 years, with his departure reportedly possible within the coming hours or days.
Pochettino remains under contract with the U.S. men's national team through the 2030 World Cup, but his deal reportedly includes a buyout clause worth around $10 million, a sum United may be willing to pay. The Argentine, who previously managed Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, has been open about wanting to return to club football. Speaking in September, he said, "We are still young, and I think coming back is always my goal. To win the Premier League, to be in the Premier League and to build a project with the possibility of winning." He added, "I love the football here. I think to have the chance again is one of my wishes and I hope that happens."
If Pochettino does depart, U.S. Soccer would need a successor capable of building on the foundation he has laid ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Several names have been floated as potential replacements.
B.J. Callaghan
Nashville SC's B.J. Callaghan is described as an outside contender. He extended his Nashville contract through the 2028-29 season in February, though U.S. Soccer could still look to pursue him. Callaghan served as the USMNT's interim manager in 2023 and has overseen a record-setting 2026 MLS season at Nashville, which posted the highest points tally in MLS regular-season history (77), along with league records for most wins (23), fewest losses (3) and fewest goals conceded (25).
Julian Nagelsmann
Julian Nagelsmann, who most recently managed Germany at the 2026 World Cup, is also mentioned as a possible option. He resigned after Germany's exit to Paraguay in the round of 32 and has been a free agent since. His tactical flexibility and emphasis on pressing are seen as potentially suited to the USMNT's style, though Germany's defensive struggles at the World Cup are flagged as a concern, particularly with the USMNT needing to fill a gap left by the retirement of center back Tim Ream.
Steve Cherundolo
Steve Cherundolo, currently in charge of the U.S. under-23 side preparing for the 2028 Olympics, is floated as a more straightforward option, potentially on an interim basis. He previously led LAFC to the 2022 Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup before stepping down at the end of 2025. Cherundolo also earned 87 caps for the USMNT between 1999 and 2012, including appearances at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
Roberto Martínez
Roberto Martínez, who managed Belgium from 2016 to 2022 and Portugal from 2023 to 2026, is another name under consideration. He led Portugal to the 2025 UEFA Nations League title before resigning following their round-of-16 exit at the 2026 World Cup. He has been a free agent since and is reported to remain open to another international role.
Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola, who left Manchester City this past May after a decade in charge, is also named as a potential, if unexpected, candidate. He cited a lack of "energy" and a plan to "rest" when he departed City. Guardiola has previously lived in New York and has stayed connected to the U.S. through his support of New York City FC, Manchester City's sister club.
